Almaty: Kazakh aul Huns and Ak-Bulak Resort Day Trip

If you’re visiting Almaty and looking to step into the world of Kazakh nomads, this day trip offers a compelling blend of culture, tradition, and natural beauty. For around $129, you’ll explore the ethno-village “Huns”, enjoy traditional performances and a taste of local cuisine, then finish with a visit to the breathtaking Ak-Bulak Resort. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience promises a well-rounded glimpse into Kazakhstan’s proud heritage and stunning landscapes.

What we love about this tour is how it balances culture with beautiful scenery. First, the show program at the Huns village really captures the nomadic spirit, with horse riding, traditional dances, and craft demonstrations. Second, the spectacular views from Ak-Bulak Resort provide a perfect backdrop for photos and relaxation—it’s a chance to see Kazakhstan’s mountain scenery up close.

One possible drawback is the duration—a full day means a lot of moving around, which might be tiring for some travelers. The itinerary is packed, so if you’re looking to relax or explore at a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those eager to cover a lot of ground and learn about Kazakh culture in a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic cultural displays, enjoy horseback riding and traditional sports, or simply want to see some of the most beautiful mountain vistas near Almaty. It works well for those with a moderate level of physical activity and an interest in Kazakh traditions.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion through performances, crafts, and traditional customs
• Stunning mountain views at Ak-Bulak Resort, great for photos and relaxation
• Expert guides enhance the experience with detailed stories and explanations
• Includes local cuisine and interactive activities like archery and horse riding
• Comfortable transportation makes traveling between sites hassle-free
• Flexible booking options with full refunds if canceled 48 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The Journey Begins: From Almaty to the Ethno-village “Huns”

Starting early at 8:00 am, the day kicks off with a comfortable transfer in a well-maintained vehicle. The drive from Almaty to Talgar District takes roughly two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and maybe catch a glimpse of the Kazakh countryside. The guide, often fluent in English and Russian, will set the scene with background about Kazakhstan’s nomadic traditions—the kind of context that makes the visit more meaningful.

Arrival at the Ethno-village “Huns”

As you arrive around 11:00 am, you’re greeted with a Shashu ritual—a warm Kazakh welcome. This is a small but genuine gesture that helps you feel like a guest in a living museum rather than just a tourist. The village itself is designed to resemble a traditional yurt-based encampment, with demonstrations showing how nomads lived, worked, and celebrated.

One of the highlights here is the performance program, which is both entertaining and educational. Expect horse shows featuring “Zhigittik oner” (dzhigitovka), showcasing skilled horseback tricks, and participatory games like “Kyzkuu” (a traditional race), along with lively dancing like “Kara Zhorga”. Visitors often find these performances dynamic and sincere, as one reviewer noted, “The huns did everything to make us feel like we are in the nomadic era.” It’s a chance to see Kazakh history come alive.

Hands-On Cultural Activities

Around 11:10 am, you’ll have the chance to learn how to prepare Bauyrsaks—traditional dough treats—during a cooking master class. Enjoy a cup of Kazakh tea afterward, which is typically brewed strong and served with local sweets. This interactive part of the tour is a favorite, as it allows you to participate directly in Kazakh culinary traditions.

Later, around noon, the guide explains more about nomadic life, demonstrating the yurt and explaining ceremonies like “Besikke salu,” a traditional blessing. These stories deepen your appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of Kazakh nomads.

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Traditional Performance and Horseback Sports

From 12:00 pm onward, the focus shifts to a lively performance by the First Historical Patriotic Club “Sarbaz Rukhy”. You’ll see a horse show full of daring tricks, followed by equestrian games such as “Atpen audaryspak” (a traditional riding sport) and “Kyzkuu.” The enthusiasm and skill of the riders often impress visitors, and the chance to watch or even try some of these activities offers a rare glimpse into Kazakhstan’s equestrian culture.

Lunch and Free Time

At 1:00 pm, a hearty lunch awaits: pilaf, fresh salad, bread with bauyrsaks, tea, and water. The food is straightforward but authentic, giving you a real taste of Kazakh cuisine. Several reviews highlight the quality and generosity of the meal as a highlight, with one traveler remarking, “the food was great, and they did everything to make us feel like we are in the nomadic era.”

After lunch, you’re free to explore or relax, perhaps wandering around the village or taking photos of the traditional yurts and scenery.

Archery and Relaxation

At 2:00 pm, a master class in archery allows you to try your hand at this ancient skill, often described as fun and accessible. Followed by some free time, it’s an opportunity to stretch your legs, soak in the atmosphere, or chat with fellow travelers.

Ending the Day with Scenic Views

By 4:00 pm, it’s time to leave the Huns village and head toward Ak-Bulak Resort, located nearby. Here, travelers often comment on the breathtaking panoramic views and the peaceful mountain setting—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. Many reviews praise the “amazing views from the top,” which offer a great photo opportunity and a sense of peace.

Transportation and Guide Quality

Comfortable transportation is a key part of the experience. Travelers consistently mention the smooth, air-conditioned vans and the friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Max or Damir—who go above and beyond with storytelling and photo-taking. One reviewer noted that the guide was eager to help and made the day memorable, and another appreciated the seamless transfer that allowed them to relax and focus on the experience.

The tour includes all transportation costs and water throughout the day, making it easy to focus on enjoying the sights and activities. Personal expenses and alcohol are not included, so plan accordingly.

Pricing and Value

At $129 per person, this trip offers a solid value considering the full day of activities, transportation, entrance fees, and guided commentary. The inclusion of live performances, a traditional lunch, and hands-on crafts and skills make it a worthwhile investment for anyone keen to understand Kazakhstan’s nomadic roots.

While some reviews suggest that paying at the gate might be cheaper, the convenience of booking in advance, coupled with flexible cancellation options—full refund if canceled 48 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy cultural experiences, traditional music and dance, and hands-on activities like archery and cooking. It’s especially good for those curious about Kazakh history and nomadic life, and for anyone wanting to see mountain scenery without strenuous hiking. It’s a family-friendly option, particularly if your family enjoys interactive shows and animals.

Those who prefer a slow-paced, relaxed day may find the schedule a bit full, but most travelers appreciate the variety and authenticity this tour offers.

The Sum Up

This Almaty day trip to the Huns ethno-village and Ak-Bulak Resort delivers a lively, educational, and scenic peek into Kazakh tradition. It combines traditional performances, culinary experiences, and stunning mountain vistas, all led by guides who clearly care about sharing their culture authentically.

For travelers interested in history, horses, and picturesque landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience that feels both immersive and enjoyable. The inclusion of interactive activities and delicious food ensures you’ll leave with more than just photos—perhaps a new appreciation for the resilient nomadic spirit of Kazakhstan.

If you’re after a fun, cultural day that balances entertainment, learning, and scenery, this trip is a strong choice. Just be prepared for a full day of activity, and you’ll come away with a richer understanding of Kazakh heritage—and some fantastic photos to prove it.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The ticket for the Huns ethno-village show, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, transfer both ways from/to your hotel, an English-speaking guide, and water are included.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides a traditional lunch consisting of pilaf, salad, bauyrsaks, tea, and water.

Can I participate in activities like horse riding or archery?
While the tour includes demonstrations and a master class in archery, actual horseback riding might be available, but it’s not explicitly confirmed—most activities are demonstration and participation.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, especially if you want to fully enjoy the outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy interactive performances and outdoor activities tend to find it engaging. Keep in mind some physical activities like horse shows are designed for spectators, not participation.

How long is the tour?
It starts at 8:00 am and ends around 4:00 pm, offering a full day of cultural and scenic experiences.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund or up to 24 hours for a 50% refund. It’s advisable to confirm your booking early for maximum flexibility.

Is the tour bilingual?
Guides speak English and Russian, ensuring most travelers can follow the stories and explanations comfortably.

What if I want to explore more of Almaty afterward?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to plan your evening. For additional sightseeing, consider asking your guide for local tips or exploring nearby attractions on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: